Updated for 2024
This is a complete blog and video guide to FREE camping on BLM land East of Zion National Park in Utah. There are free camping opportunities to the east and the west of the Park – this guide focuses on the east side of the Park.
For free camping to the West of Zion towards the town of Virgin, please read my Article about Free Camping to the West of Zion.
In this guide, you will find maps with directions, updates on road conditions, locations of most campsites, and availability of amenities such as cell coverage, water, and toilets.
About Zion National Park and BLM land
Zion National Park is almost surrounded by BLM land and National Forests. The Kanab Field Office manages the BLM land east of Zion.
The Paria River BLM District Office and Field Office are in Kanab – Phone: (435) 644-1200
Maps and Directions
I highly recommend the Avenza Maps App!
Please download the following map: BLM Utah Kanab Transportation and Recreation – South.
Camping inside or near Zion National Park
Zion National Park has three campgrounds. South and Watchman Campgrounds are in Zion Canyon. The Lava Point Campground is about 80 minutes from the South Entrance along the Kolob Terrace Road.
There are many private campgrounds in nearby towns.
Recommended FREE Camping Areas on BLM land nearest to Zion NP East Entrance
Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28-consecutive-day period. The 28-day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14-day limit may be reached either through several separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 days.
After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25-mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day of the initial occupation.
7.5 Miles East of Zion
As shown on the map below, there are great FREE BLM camping just 7.5 miles from the East Entrance of Zion NP.
From SR 9, turn west onto Forest Road 71C (potholed old tarmac road) then drive for 0.57 miles before turning left.
Drive up the hill to find an almost unlimited number of camping opportunities.
There is a large exposed campsite after 0.9 miles if you continue along FR 71C.
The area is in a shallow basin so heavy rain will make things interesting! You may want to camp on higher ground if rain is in the forecast.
Verizon has very good LTE service at these campsites.
